Invasive Species
For an organism to be an invasive species, it must be:
Non-native - transported across a major geographic barrier to an area where it does not occur naturally.
Harmful - negative impacts are caused to native wildlife, local biodiversity, agricultural production, or human safety.
These plants, animals, and pathogens thrive and spread rapidly because they are free from the natural predators, competitors, and diseases that keep their populations in check in their native habitats.
Sometimes it is up to us and proper IPM practices to help keep them controlled.
Please contact us or another professional ASAP if you feel there is a local issue with an invasive species.
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Cydalima perspectalis, the Box Tree Moth, is an invasive pest that can quickly defoliate and destroy boxwood shrubs. Caterpillars feed aggressively on leaves and bark, often causing severe damage before homeowners realize there is a problem.
Early detection and timely treatments are critical.
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European Crane Fly larvae feed on turfgrass roots and crowns, potentially causing thinning lawns and damaged turf in residential and commercial landscapes.
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The Spotted Lanternfly feeds on a wide variety of trees and plants, weakening vegetation and creating nuisance conditions through honeydew production and sooty mold growth.
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Giant Hogweed is an invasive plant that can pose health risks to people. Contact with plant sap combined with sunlight exposure may cause severe skin irritation and burns.
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Emerald Ash Borer has caused the loss of millions of ash trees throughout Michigan and remains a significant concern where untreated ash trees remain.
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Japanese Knotweed is an aggressive invasive plant capable of spreading through extensive underground rhizomes, making control difficult once established.
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Wild Parsnip (Pastinaca sativa) is an invasive plant commonly found along roadsides, vacant lots, trails, drainage areas, and unmanaged landscapes throughout Michigan. While the plant may appear harmless, its sap contains chemicals that can cause severe skin irritation and blistering when exposed to sunlight.
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This invasive reed can rapidly dominate wetlands, shorelines, and drainage areas, displacing native vegetation and reducing habitat diversity.